Dog-friendly cities in Canada offer a mix of off-leash parks, scenic walking trails, pet-friendly businesses and access to nature.
If you’re planning to buy a home, finding a community that suits both you and your dog is just as important as finding the right property. From coastal cities to mountain communities, here are nine places to consider, along with recent housing market data.
1. Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a great choice for dog owners who want city living and access to the outdoors. Stanley Park’s seawall, neighbourhood green spaces and designated off-leash areas offer plenty of opportunities for daily walks. Vancouver ranked first in a September 2026 Rover and Redfin dog-walking study, with a Walk Score of 79.8, reflecting its access to nearby amenities on foot.
Home prices: Greater Vancouver’s average residential sale price was approximately $1.23 million in September 2026.
2. Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna combines lakeside scenery with parks, trails and outdoor recreation. Dog owners can explore green spaces and designated dog-friendly beaches, including areas around Cedar Creek Park and Poplar Point. Kelowna ranked first in Canadian Dogs’ pet-friendly city ranking, which considers factors such as dog parks, pet-friendly businesses and veterinary services.
Home prices: In the broader Okanagan region, the median detached-home sale price was $842,500 in the third quarter of 2026. This is a regional figure, not a Kelowna-specific price.
3. Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria is known for its mild climate, waterfront scenery and outdoor recreation. Dogs and their owners can enjoy walking trails, parks and designated dog-friendly beaches throughout the area.
Victoria ranked second in Canadian Dogs’ pet-friendly city ranking, making it a strong option for buyers who want access to outdoor spaces and pet-related services.
Home prices: The benchmark price for a single-family home in Victoria’s core area was $1,280,100 in September 2026.
4. Kingston, Ontario
Kingston offers waterfront paths, neighbourhood parks and outdoor recreation along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Dog owners can explore local green spaces and designated off-leash areas, including Memorial Centre Park.
Kingston ranked fifth in Canadian Dogs’ pet-friendly city ranking, making it worth considering for buyers seeking a smaller urban community.
Home prices: The average price of homes sold in Kingston was $589,070 in September 2026.
5. Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa combines city amenities with extensive green space. Dog owners can explore local trails, neighbourhood parks and off-leash areas such as Bruce Pit Dog Park and Hampton Park Dog Run.
Ottawa also appeared in the September 2026 Rover and Redfin study, with a Walk Score of 45.1. Its mix of parks and residential neighbourhoods makes it an option for buyers who want access to outdoor recreation.
Home prices: Ottawa’s average residential sale price was $685,640 in September 2026.
6. Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton offers a mix of urban neighbourhoods, parks, waterfront areas and trails near the Niagara Escarpment. These outdoor spaces give dog owners plenty of options for walks and weekend adventures.
Hamilton ranked fourth in the September 2026 Rover and Redfin dog-walking study, with a Walk Score of 49.6.
Home prices: Hamilton’s average residential sale price was $714,420 in September 2026.
7. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax offers coastal scenery, waterfront trails and green spaces. Point Pleasant Park and Fort Needham Memorial Park are popular places to enjoy the outdoors, while local shops and patios offer opportunities to explore with your pup.
For buyers who want a balance of urban amenities and outdoor recreation, Halifax is worth considering.
Home prices: Studies reported an aggregate home price of $526,500 in the Halifax region in the third quarter of 2026. The median detached-home price was $598,300.
8. Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City combines historic neighbourhoods with access to parks and outdoor recreation. Dog owners can explore green spaces such as Parc Chauveau and Parc de la Pente-Douce, along with nearby walking trails.
For buyers looking for a city with a distinct cultural identity and outdoor amenities, Quebec City is another option to explore. Check local leash rules and seasonal restrictions before visiting specific parks.
Home prices: Quebec City’s average residential sale price was approximately $510,946 in September 2026.
9. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown offers a welcoming community, a scenic waterfront and access to parks. Dog owners can explore Victoria Park and look for pet-friendly patios and local businesses.
Charlottetown ranked tenth in Canadian Dogs’ pet-friendly city ranking, which considers dog parks, pet-friendly businesses and access to veterinary services.
Home prices: The median sale price for detached homes in Charlottetown was $485,000 in the second quarter of 2026.
Finding the Right Home for You and Your Dog
The best dog-friendly cities in Canada offer more than a backyard. Access to parks, walking trails, off-leash areas and pet-friendly businesses can all contribute to a better quality of life for you and your companion.
When comparing homes, consider the distance to nearby green spaces, whether the property has a suitable outdoor area and what pet-friendly amenities are available in the neighbourhood. Get started with Zoocasa to begin your home-buying journey.
Originally published: April 20, 2023
Last updated: November 6, 2026
